Get unlimited access to everything VICE has to offer.

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

Turn off all ads on VICE.com

Exclusive New VICE Documentaries

Member Exclusive Features & Columns

4 Magazines Delivered to Your Door

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more here.

Gas Prices Suck—Here’s How to Pay Less at the Pump

Save on gas without doing anything weird.

Share on X (Opens in new window)X

Share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Facebook

Share using Native toolsShareCopied to clipboard

Filling up your tank isn’t just annoying, it’s one of the biggest recurring expenses most people have. The average American household spends roughly $2,400 a year on gas, according to the Motley Fool Money data. It is a painful amount to watch disappear into your fuel tank. The good news? Paying full price can be optional. From driving strategies to cash-back credit cards and loyalty programs, from hidden Amazon Prime perks to a few apps worth downloading, these are the smartest ways to spend less at the pump without driving like your grandma.

Why Are Gas Prices So High?

But before we dive into some gas-saving tactics, how did we get here? Gas prices have a special talent for going up the exact week you decide to take a road trip, lose your job, or just want to live your life. According to a recent Reuters report, the latest spike comes down to the usual cocktail of higher oil prices, seasonal summer demand, and refinery hiccups that tighten fuel supplies. Joy! In other words, it’s less “someone’s out to get you” and more “the timing is terrible” and life is hard. Even though we know why gas prices are on the rise, it still doesn’t make swiping your credit card at the pump hurt any less. 

So we’re here to help with some ways to save on gas…

How to Save Money on Gas

Glen Hayward, an auto repair owner in Tempe, AZ, with NARPRO, says the smartest move isn’t waiting for prices to drop; it’s by using less gas today. “Small changes behind the wheel can add up to real savings right away, Hayward adds.” Try the following gas-saving strategies:

Check your tire pressure monthly to improve mileage (and safety, too). Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your car to work harder and use more gas. You can check your tire pressure with this: 

AstroAI Digital Tire Pressure Gauge (opens in a new window)

And inflate your tire with this:

Airmoto Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor (opens in a new window)

Remove excess weight that drags down fuel efficiency. That means, it’s time to clean your trunk.

Drive at........

© Vice